Be Present - Look them in the eye

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> We can be present but not present with. We can be present but not engaged. We can be present but our minds are somewhere else. I am intrigued with modern tools of communication and enjoy using computer, iPhone, etc. but these tools keep me in touch from a distance without really being engaged. This kind of communication is useful and meaningful to a extent, but can also keep us at a distance. Seems to me humans have a need for relationship that is engaged, intimate, open, listening, aware, present with one another. Even as a pastor visiting a parishioner I came to realize I could do this but not really be engaged. Persons could pick up on this, or I could really be paying attention, listening, feeling the loneliness of the other person. I could look them in the eye and feel their reaching out. In these moments care and encouragement happened even when I did not have a solution. Being present in the moment to the person. This is one reason Jesus was so successful. People knew he was with them, feeling their hurt, loving and caring….well, lets see where we go with this thought today….
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